Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances crispy textures and savory flavors, look no further than Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. This recipe takes the beloved classic of chicken parmesan and gives it a fun twist, making it the star of any family gathering. Picture this: juicy, tender chicken coated in a golden crust, delivering that satisfying crunch with each bite. It’s a delightful combination that will leave you reaching for seconds.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. Their expressions of pure delight reminded me of the old saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” It’s a fun and easy dish that even picky eaters will love. Compared to other popular blog recipes, like crispy oven-baked fried chicken, this recipe utilizes the air fryer, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your kitchen repertoire!
What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
At first glance, you might wonder how mayonnaise has anything to do with making chicken crispy. You’re not alone—why isn’t it just called “crispy chicken”? It’s a quirky name, right? Well, the secret lies in the creamy richness of mayo that wonderfully binds the parmesan and seasonings, creating a perfectly crunchy coating when air-fried. It’s undoubtedly true that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish certainly proves that point! If you’re ready to impress some loved ones with minimal effort, grab your air fryer and let’s get cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
First and foremost, the main highlight of this dish is its incredible flavor and crispiness — think finger-licking goodness that’s both satisfying and indulgent. It’s hard to resist a dish that embodies comfort food while still feeling light, don’t you agree? Secondly, cooking at home is not only cost-effective, but it’s also a fantastic way to bond with family while enjoying quality time together. Unlike ordering takeout, this recipe enables you to create something delicious without breaking the bank.
You could compare this to traditional fried chicken, but trust me, the flavor-packed crust of parmesan and herbs elevates it to a whole new level. And if you want to jazz it up, feel free to sprinkle in some herbs or spices of your choice. So grab your apron, and let’s discover how to make this dish together!
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Creating Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a breeze, and you’ll have a mouthwatering main dish ready in just about 30 minutes. The air fryer ensures each piece is perfectly cooked, maintaining juiciness inside while providing that unbeatable crunch outside. Preparation takes only 15 minutes, but the results are bound to impress! Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this culinary adventure.
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
To make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (or a drizzle of olive oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This allows the mayo and seasonings to stick better. Cut the chicken into uniform pieces if desired.
- Make the Coating: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well-blended and smooth.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the mayo mixture, ensuring that it’s fully coated. Next, roll it in the grated parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs until covered evenly.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spritz the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Cook to Perfection: Air fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the basket and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy masterpiece!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
To make sure you get the best results from your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, here are some pro-tips:
- Substitutions: If you want a healthier option, try yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a similar texture but with less fat.
- Timing: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces; using thinner cuts may yield quicker cooking times.
- Avoid the Mistakes: Ensure the air fryer isn’t overcrowded, as this can prevent the chicken from getting crispy. For best results, cook in batches if necessary.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain that delightful crispy texture. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method will help retain the crunchiness of the chicken, bringing it back to life!
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is not just a meal; it’s an experience that you’ll want to recreate again and again. So gather your family around the table, and introduce them to this quick and delicious dish. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces if desired.
- In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well-blended and smooth.
- Dip each chicken piece into the mayo mixture, ensuring that it’s fully coated.
- Roll each piece in the grated parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs until covered evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spritz the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the basket and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your crispy masterpiece!
